What are Music Cue Sheets? Why do we need them?
Category: Tech
A cue sheet is a document containing a detailed listing of all the music used within a television show, feature film, documentary or other audiovisual production. A music cue sheet lists theme and background music associated specifically with a production, as well as any independent songs are also included in the soundtrack.
The cue sheet is filed with the appropriate Performing Right Societies (BMI or ASCAP in USA, SONY in Europe), which collect the pre-negotiated royalties from the broadcasters, which are then distributed to music publishers and composers. Without the cue sheet on file, these royalties would remain unidentified, and unpaid.
Cue sheets are primarily required when a production is broadcast on television (free, cable or satellite TV), but may also be required when a production is streamed on a major digital platform.
Information indicates the song/track title, composer and publisher information, duration and use type. Download the official ASCAP music cue sheet below and feel free to use it.